Rafael Leao reveals why Zlatan Ibrahimovic was not impressed with his music career, as the Milan forward releases his second rap album under the name Way 45. ‘Some teammates laughed, others were more supportive.’
The Portugal international was named Serie A Player of the Season in 2021-22 when winning the Serie A title and has now helped his teammates reach the Champions League semi-final, eliminating Tottenham Hotspur and Napoli along the way.
Not content with conquering the world of football and discussing a new multi-million euro contract to stay at San Siro, he already released debut album ‘Beginning’ in 2021.
Now Leao under his alter ego Way 45 is bringing out the album ‘My Life In Each Verse’ later this year and had an interview with Rolling Stone UK.
“I always wanted to do something in music and I find it really allows me to express myself because I’m shy. I’m a shy person and I don’t always show my emotions and my feelings. But through the music I can do that, and it’s just like another world for me,” said Leao.
He is using some of his Milan salary to set up his own label and bring in new Portuguese artists, as well as creating a little studio at home.
“I was a kid in a hoodie from a small town with a dream who somehow became a superstar. When I was struggling I didn’t think this would happen.”
If made to choose between football and rap, there are no doubts.
“Football, of course! It’s given me a lot and I love it, it just has to be.”
Leao has played the new album to his Milan teammates, although the reaction from some of his older colleagues wasn’t entirely positive.
“Yes, they’ve heard it! Some have laughed at it, but others have been more supportive. Zlatan Ibrahimovic laughed at it. He laughed at it and told me to focus on football instead! But the rest have told me to keep going and doing my thing.”